Oregon Legislature convenes; work begins on implementing Measure 91

On November 4, 2014, Oregon voters overwhelming approved Measure 91, 56% to 44%! Oregon and Alaska, whose voters also approved a similar measure that same night, join Washington and Colorado in taxing and regulating marijuana like alcohol. Meanwhile, voters in D.C. approved a measure that removes all penalties for possession, use, and cultivation by adults 21 and older.

Beginning on July 1, 2015, Measure 91 will legalize the possession, private use, and cultivation of marijuana by adults 21 and older. It also requires the liquor commission to license and regulate four types of marijuana businesses to produce, process, wholesale, and sell marijuana for adults’ use. For more information, please see our summary of the new law.

In the meantime, lawmakers in Salem have begun the 2015 legislative session, and there is no shortage of marijuana policy related proposals to debate, some positive, some not so much. Protecting the intent of Measure 91 through the implementation process is a top priority this year. Additionally, bills to add conditions to the medical program have been introduced as well.

Congratulations to the entire team at the Yes on 91 campaign. Thanks to their hard work, adults in Oregon will no longer be penalized by the state for choosing to use marijuana in private. However, the necessary work of ensuring that marijuana is properly regulated is not over yet. Please sign up for our alerts, and keep an eye on your inbox to find out how to help ensure faithful implementation of the voters' will.